(Newser)
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Israel’s Security Cabinet declared Hamas-controlled Gaza a “hostile entity” in a unanimous vote today, and plans to cut off almost all the region’s electricity, supplies and fuel shipments. Only essential food and medicine, and enough fuel to run hospital generators will be allowed in. Hamas described the decision as “a declaration of war,” reports the Guardian.

Israel promised not to cross “the red line when it comes to humanitarian needs,” according to CNN. Israel will also continue military strikes on Gaza, which has been firing rockets at southern Israel almost daily. The escalation coincides with Condoleeza Rice’s visit to the region to lay groundwork for peace talks between Israel and the Fatah-controlled Palestinian Authority, which could move Palestine closer to statehood.